Shanghai'd

While I appreciate everyone's support on the torch competition that went on last fall, recent events have made me kind of glad I didn't win. I really don't like to put myself in the middle of issues, especially when they become political. In fact, what I write below is pretty out there for me; I normally like to keep my mouth shut. (For those of you who know me well, I know its hard to believe, but I really do like to keep quiet!)

The Olympics is a time when the hosting country's policy is under close scrutiny. This year's Summer games in Beijing (as well as other news) have kept China in the international headlines for the past years. China's stance and struggle on pollution, Tibet, Sudan, food & manufacturing quality standards, a rapidly growing economy and the hot stock market have been pulled front and center into the global radar. Ten years ago, how many people in the US could name the capital of China? Or 3 major cities? After being closed off for many years, both in modern and ancient history, this is a new thing for China.

On our recent trip back to the states the big question was to boycott or not to boycott the games and or the opening ceremony. On NPR I listened to news reports and opinions by former athletes about this subject. After returning to China, I have also asked some Chinese friends about this topic and the general feeling is one of patriotism and support for China, and disdain for those who knock it. I admit the Olympics might not be the best time to take a stand against one nation in particular, there are much better ways (think about the tremendous dollar amount of imports the US gets from China each year). At the same time, if China is going to become a major world power, it must be prepared to be under some degree of scrutiny. Isn't that essentially what hosting the Games is for China? Another step out of the developing world into the first?